I would like to redo the struts on my cub but don't want to mess with sanding and covering would sticks. To me that was the worst part I have ever experienced building. I was wondering what every one is using or if they are shaping wood? I saw the aluminum tapered rod but I worry that it will give me radio interference. Any suggestions?


SVX

K&S makes streamlined aluminum tubing in several sizes that works just great. No radio problems unless you have intermittant contact between metal.

Les

I used the K&S tubing on my Sig Cub for the very functional struts, no problems and they look cool bare aluminum.

That's a good point, I never thought of leaving them bare metal. It is worth a shot.

SVX

SVX,
I reread your origional post and realzed that I hadn't fully answered your question. I had no problems with radio interference, as LesUyeda said, make sure that the metal parts are secure and don't rub. It is easy to make end fittings for the tubing, you can either flatten the ends and use them like that or flatten it with another piece of metal or maybe even better some plastic in between.

So if I glue/solder each strut where they come together at the fusealage then I should be good right?

If you flatten the ends where they come together, and use a common bolt/screw, you should not even have to glue. I don't think you want to try and solder, unless you are experienced at soldering aluminum. It could be quite frustrating.

Les

Most balsa suppliers offer aerodynamic-shaped spruce sticks that have 90% of the sanding work done. Covering would take a few minutes and in the long run they'd be easier to set up than the aluminum tubing.

If your struts are to be functional make sure the ends are secure & won't pull out or vibrate enough to fracture. Also give some extra thought to the anchor points in wing & fuselage . I have found out that you only get one strut failure per aircraft ! It's not pretty! MAX H.

Take a look at my site about folding struts. I have used them for sveral years.